Hans Sloane/
Early Life
Hans Sloane was born on April 16, 1660, in Killyleagh, a small town in County Down, Northern Ireland. He was the seventh son of Alexander Sloane, a local landowner and tax collector. His mother, Sarah Hicks, was from a prominent family in the region. Sloane's father died when he was just six years old, and his mother raised him and his siblings on her own.
Education
In 1672, Sloane moved to London to study medicine. He enrolled in the University of London, where he studied under the renowned physician Thomas Sydenham. Sloane's interest in botany was sparked during his studies, and he began to collect plant specimens, which he would later use in his medical practice.
Medical Career
Sloane graduated from the University of London in 1681 and began practicing medicine in London. He quickly gained a reputation for his expertise in botany and his innovative use of plants in medical treatments. In 1687, he was appointed as the personal physician to the Duke of Albemarle, who was then the governor of Jamaica. This appointment allowed Sloane to travel to Jamaica, where he collected over 800 new plant specimens.
Contributions to Science
Upon his return to London in 1695, Sloane published a catalogue of the plants he had collected in Jamaica, titled "A Catalogue of the Plants of Jamaica". This work was highly influential and contributed to the development of botany as a scientific discipline. Sloane also made significant contributions to the field of medicine. He was a pioneer in the use of quinine for the treatment of malaria, and he developed a milk chocolate drink that was used as a nutritional supplement for patients.
British Museum
In addition to his scientific work, Sloane was a passionate collector of books, manuscripts, and artifacts. His collection, which included over 71,000 items, was bequeathed to the British nation upon his death in 1753. This collection formed the basis of the British Museum, which was established in 1759. Sloane's collection is still a significant part of the museum's holdings today.
Personal Life
Sloane married Elizabeth Langley in 1695, and they had three daughters. Sloane was known for his philanthropy and his support of education. He served as the president of the Royal Society from 1727 to 1741, and he was a founding member of the Royal Society of Arts.
Legacy
Sloane's contributions to science and culture have had a lasting impact. His work in botany and medicine has influenced generations of scientists, and his collection has provided the foundation for one of the world's most important museums. The plant genus Sloanea was named in his honor, and his name is commemorated in several place names in London, including Sloane Square and Sloane Street.